GORHAM/CLIFTON SPRINGS/FLORIDA - Robert "Bob" Charles Ellis of Zephyrhills, Florida, (formerly of Gorham & Clifton Springs, N.Y.) died on Monday, February 16, 2015.

A Memorial Service will be held on Saturday (March 7) at 2:00 p.m. at the First United Methodist Church at 1 East Main Street, Clifton Springs, N.Y. Memorial contributions can be made to the First United Methodist Church in Clifton Springs.

Bob was born in Geneva, N.Y., on July 27, 1936, to the late Ralph R. and Nellie Robson Ellis. Bob grew up helping run the family dairy farm on Yautzy Rd in Gorham, N.Y. Bob was a graduate from Gorham Central School Class of 1954. At a very young age Bob developed his love of music and performing. In high school, he had his own orchestra in which he played the trumpet. Later in his life he was an active member of The New Horizons Band in Rochester, N.Y., The Finger Lakes Community Band, numerous other bands in the Finger Lakes area, as well as The Wesley Chapel Community Band and the Lakeland Concert Band in Florida. Bob also enjoyed sharing his musical talents in church both in Clifton Springs and Zephyrhills. After high school Bob continued his love of performing when he became a magician and performed his "Modern Magic" with his family throughout N.Y. State. Bob was also a professional square dance caller for nearly 60 years. In the mid 80's Bob began a new career in photography. This career included time with Stegall's Photography, K-Mart and Busch Gardens. He also loved every possible photo opportunity with family and friends. The church has played an important role in his life. In the past 25 years he played a significant role in the First United Methodist Church in Clifton Springs and in Zephyrhills, Florida. Bob was a beloved husband, father, grandfather and great grandfather.

Bob is survived by his wife of 38 years, Nancy Johnson Ellis; and his children, Dawn Ellis Bush (Allen), Tamara Ellis Charlette (Steve), Carol Ellis Grover (Trevor), Tamera Bauer Stegall, Todd C. Bauer (Karen); 15 grandchildren; three great-grandchildren; sister-in-law and brother-in-law, Carol and David Hagadorn, and sister-in-law, Kathryn J. Erdle.

He was preceded in death by his daughter, Yvonne Ellis Morrow.

Published in Finger Lakes Times from Feb. 26 to Mar. 3, 2015.